Put away the knife, dog guy

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Letter writer Anthony Belli, you say you’re a lifelong dog lover and that “hurting any dog would be devastating.”

Hopefully you are allowing your beagle to enjoy his life from his perspective also. As a beagle he is a natural hunter, high energy, loves to run (chase), very social, hunts in packs with other beagles. Anthony, Snoopy needs to run free, unfettered daily at least one to two hours during “his” dog time. He will pursue scents, chase critters and ideally some days other dogs can join him, satisfying his social interaction needs.

I’m assuming your leashed beagle has a good sized yard at home to also enjoy with a doggie door available for easy access.

Anthony, if indeed your daily routine with Snoopy includes the above described workout (I’m guessing not), Snoopy’s life sadly outside of your home is leashed.

Snoopy is a small dog with suppressed instincts. Natural aggressive, defensive behavior bred into most dogs. If allowed early on in social interactions throughout his life with other dog breeds, large and small, he would be able to defend himself against aggressive animals.

Anthony, your beagle is getting his ass kicked because of you.

Next time you’re at Forebay look for the woman and her two dogs. Pick up Snoopy and walk over to her, ask her how her dogs would react to Snoopy if you put Snoopy down. If she replies that they would be fine, then observe their behavior while holding Snoopy. Let everyone “butt sniff,” slowly put Snoopy down with only one dog around (ask the woman to hold the other one). Let them play for a minute.

Then, while still leashed, let the other dog join in. If all is good, unleash Snoopy. Let him be a dog while you make a friend in the lady. Make sure you’re a good distance from traffic and roads.

Put the knife away, Anthony. Purchase a can of pepper spray to ward off aggressive, larger dogs.